Question: It is true that Islam embodies humanism. But is this actually practiced? If so, why do Islamic nations fight one another? Shouldn't they be willing to make compromises and accommodate each other? A friend asked me this, adding, "You should set yourselves right first."– A.R. Saifullah, UAE
Answer: The correct answer to this question lies in correcting ourselves.
Even if we cannot prevent conflicts between Islamic nations, if we practice perfect brotherhood among ourselves and lead the way in helping one another, others will believe us when we say that the actions of those nations have nothing to do with Islam itself.
Therefore, the Muslim community needs to realize—in light of such questions—just how closely others observe us and what they expect from us. This is a message that needs to be conveyed to our own people.
Ninety percent of those living as Muslims today did not arrive at the faith by studying various religions and realizing that Islam is the true way of life.
Instead, they are Muslims simply because their parents were Muslims. Among them are even those who are unaware of the fundamental tenets of Islam.
The situation your friend pointed out exists precisely because the majority of Muslims have not embraced the faith through a genuine understanding of it. The situation regarding the rulers of Muslim nations is even worse.
Many of them are Muslims in name only; in reality, they are completely enslaved by Western culture. Please explain to your friend that this is the reason they engage in conflicts with neighboring countries—driven by territorial ambitions and other such motives. If we work even harder to enable Muslims to live truly as Muslims, we can ensure that no one is able to ask such questions.